Dodecahydrophenanthrene compounds and processes for preparing the same



United States Patent DODECAHYDROPHENANTHRENE COMPOUNDS AND PROCESSES FOR PREPARING THE SAME Robert M. Lukes, Nixon, and George I. Poos, North Plainfield, N. J., assignors to Merck & C0,, Inc., Rahway, N. .I., a corporation of New Jersey No Drawing. Application December 31, 1953 Serial No. 401,705

12 Claims, (Cl. 260-3403) This invention relates to novel polyhydrophenanthrene compounds and processes of obtaining the same; more particularly, it is concerned with new 2,4b-dimethyl-1,2,3,- 4,4a,4b,5,6,7,9,l0,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene compounds having functional substituents in positions 1, 4 and 7, novel intermediate compounds useful in preparing these dimethyl dodecahydrophenanthrene compounds, and methods of producing these compounds.

The novel 2,4b dimethyl-1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,9,10,1021- dodecahydrophenanthrene compounds of our invention which may be represented as follows:

wherein R is a radical from the group consisting of keto, hydroxy, and acyloxy, and R is a radical selected from the group consisting of acyl and hydrogen, and ketone derivatives thereof, are useful in the preparation of other polyhydrophenanthrene compounds, and in the preparation of valuable steroid compounds.

It is an object of our invention to provide novel 2,4bdimethyl 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,9,10,10adodecahydrophenanthrene compounds having functional substituents in positions 1, 4 and 7. It is a further object to provide processes for the preparation of said 2,4b-dimethyl-dodecahydrophenanthrene compounds by the addition of a 2- methyl substituent to 4b-methyl-1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,9,10,- a-dodecahydrophenanthrene compounds.

Another object is to provide new 2-acyl derivatives of 4b methyl 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,9,10,10a-dodecahydrophenanthrene-1,4,7-trione and 4h-methyl-1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,- 9,10,10a-dodecahydrophenanthrene-4-ol-1,7-dione, or derivatives thereof, and processes of obtaining the same.

An additional object is to provide the novel products, 2,413 dimethyl-l,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,9,10,10a-dodecahydrophenanthrene 1,4,7-trione and 2,4b-dimethyl-1,2,3,4,4a,- 4b,5,6,7,9,10,10 adodecahydrophenanthrene 4 ol-1,7- dione or derivatives thereof, and processes for producing the same.

Still another object is to provide a process for converting 2,4b dimethyl-l,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,9,10,10a-dodecahydrophenanthrene-4-o1-l,7dione or derivatives thereof to the corresponding 2,4b-dimethyl-1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,9,l0, 10a-dodecahydrophenanthrene-1,4,7-trione compounds.

Other objects will be apparent from the detailed description hereinafter provided.

In accordance with the present invention, we have found that derivatives of 4b-methyl-1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,9,- 10,10a-dodecahydrophenanthrene-4-ol-1,7-dione, the corresponding 4-acyloxy compounds, and 4b-methyl-l,2,3,4,- 4a,4b,5,6,7,9,10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene 1,4,7- trione wherein the 7-keto substituent is blocked by a 2,862,004 Patented Nov. 25, 1958 ice group which is reconvertible to keto by hydrolysis, can be readily converted to the corresponding 2,4b-dimethyl dodecahydrophenanthrene compounds. Our method of introducing the Z-methyl substitutent can be conveniently illustrated by the following reaction scheme showing the application of our processes to certain 7-ketal derivatives of the starting materials:

wherein R is a ketal substituent convertible to keto by hydrolysis, R is a keto, hydroxy or acyloxy group, and R is an acyl radical.

In accordance with the foregoing reaction scheme the starting dodecahydrophenanthrene compound (I) is acylated to form the corresponding Z-acyl derivative (II) which is then methylated to produce the 2--acyl-2-methyl compound (III). Compound III on cleavage of the acyl substituent forms the 4-01 compound (IVa) or the 4 -one compound, depending upon the substituent in the 4- position, which on hydrolysis yield respectively the 4-ol- 1,7-dione compound (Va) and the 1,4,7-trione compound (Vb).

In accordance with one embodiment of our invention, the starting compounds, 4b-methyl-1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,9, 10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene 4 ol-1,7-dione, its 4 acyloxy derivative, or 4b-methyl-1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,9,10,- 10a dodecahydrophenanthrene-1,4,7-trione, wherein the 7-keto substituent is blocked by the formation of a suitable derivative, are acylated by reaction with an ester in the presence of an alkaline condensing agent to form the corresponding 2-acyl derivative.

The 7-keto substituent is blocked during our process in order to prevent acylation or alkylation inring A. This blocking of the 7-keto group is conveniently ac complished by the preparation of a ketone derivative which is reconvertible. by acid hydrolysis to a keto substituent. Suitable ketone derivatives for this purpose that might be mentioned are enol ethers and cyclic ketals. Thus, enol ether derivatives of the formula 3 wherein R is the same as defined above and R is a hydrocarbon radical, are suitable starting materials in our process. The methyl and ethyl enol ethers which are readily prepared are-particularly suitable as starting material's. Cyclicketal derivatives, such as the 7-ethyl'enedioxy derivative of the formula Hrs and the corresponding dithioketal derivatives of the formula THr-S Clix-S J I wherein R is thesame as defined above,-are also useful in our processof introducing the Z-methyl substituent. Similarly, other cyclic ketal derivatives such as the trimethylene, p'ropylene,land.butylene ,ketals, -.can be used toprotect the.7,-keto substituent. Upon hydrolyzing these enol ether and ketal derivatives with'acid, the protecting substituentis cleaved and the 7.-keto compound having double bond, in position 8,8a.is obtained.

,The acylation step .is effected by reacting the starting materials with; an ester in thepres'ence of an alkaline condensing .agent' in a suitable non-reactive solvent. Yariousorgariid esters can be employed in this reaction. For...example,. esters of the fatty acids such as methyl acetate, propyl. acetate, ethyl propionate, amyl acetate, methyl caproa'te, ethyl caprylate, benzyl acetate, oc tyl V acetate, decyl propionate, and the like; esters ofiaryl carhoxylic acids such as ethyl benzo'ate, propyl benzoate, ben'zyl benzoate, and the like; and the esters of aralkyl carhoxylic' acidssuch as methyl phenylacetate, benz'yl phenylacetate, .benzyl phenylacetate, propylphenylacetate, and the like; can be used in the process of our invention to] produce the corresponding 2-acyl derivatives. We have found that this acylation is most conveniently effected with an ester of an organic acid having one or two carbon atoms. We have obtained maximum yields of therdesired acyl derivative by using lower alkyl esters of such racids as .carbonic acid, formic acid or acetic acid. Thus, jfor'example, the condensation can beeifected with esterssuch asmethyl carbonate, methyl formate or methyl acetate to form respectively the corresponding 'Z-carbomethoxy,.2-for'myl,, or '2-acetoxy derivatives. Various strong alkaline condensing agents such as the alkali metal hydrides, amides. or alkoxides can be employed in'this condensation. However, we have found it most convenient to condense the ketone and the ester in the presence of sodium hydride or sodium methylate in a suitable solvent medium such as an alcohol or a hydrocarbon (inter alia methyl alcohol, benzene and the like) since under these conditions We have obtained maximum yields of the desired products. The acylation is most conveniently efiected by stirring the reaction mixture at room temperature for sufficient time to complete the reaction. When 1,4-diketo compounds are acylated, we have found that higher yields are obtained by conducting the reaction in the absence of oxygen, for example in an atmos phere of nitrogen or another inert gas. The acylated products are readily recovered from the reaction mixture by adding water and aqueous acid and then extracting the product with a suitable immiscible solvent.

When the starting material contains a hydroxy substituent at C-4, acylation of this hydroxyl occurs it longer reaction times and increased amounts of acylating agents are employed.

Pursuant to a further embodiment of our invention, we have found that the 2-acyl derivatives (II) are readily methylated by reaction with a methyl halide in the presence of an alkali to form the corresponding 2-acyl-2- methyl compound. For example, this methylation is convenientlyeffectedby addin'gthe 2-acyl compound to a suspension of. potassium carbonate in acetone, adding an excess of methyl iodide, andstirring the reaction mixture at room temperature. forsuflicienttirne to complete the reaction. .The 2-acyl-2-methyl compound canbe isolated byextraction .of the reaction mixture with a suitable organic solvent, and concentration of the solvent extract.,.

-In accordance with a further embodiment of our invention, the 2-acyl-2-methyl compounds (III) are cleaved to remove the 2-acyl substituent by reaction with a base to form the corresponding Z-methyl compound. Thus, this cleavage can be accomplished by heating a solution of the 2-acyl-2-methyl compound with an alkali metal hydroxide, carbonate or bicarbonate. Alternatively, this cleavage is also effected by subjecting the 2-acyl-2-methyl compound to chromatography over basic alumina. The 2,4b-dimethyl compound (IVa or IVb) is isolated from the alkaline reaction mixture by extraction into an organic solvent and subsequent removal of the solvent.

, The 2,4b-dimethyl compounds (IVa and IVb) can then be hydrolyzed by treatment with acid or a substance giving rise to acids to convert the ketone derivative at C-7 to a keto group and form the 4-ol-1,7 -dione compound (Va) orthe 1,4,7-trione compound,(Vb). These latter compounds as well as their immediate precursors, co'm'poundsf IVa and IVb, are important intermediates in a total synthesis of adrenal cortical hormones'such as cortisone and dihydrocortisone. The reactions of the present invention provide a method for attachment of the future angular methyl group at 0-13 of the steroid nucleus; l Thus, 2,4b dimethyl-7-ethylenedioxy-1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,- 7,8,10,10a'-,dodecahydrophenanthrene 4-ol-l-one or the corresponding 1,4-dione compound can be converted to the valuable adrenal hormones, ll-dehydrocorticosterone and cortisone, in accordance with the following procedures:

Upon reacting 2,4b-dimethyl-7-ethylenedioxy-l,2,3,4, 4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10a 4 dodecahydrophenanthrene 4 oll-one with methallyl iodide in the presence of potassium t-butoxide the corresponding 2-methallyl. derivative, M. P. l66-l68 C., is produced, which on oxidation with the chromium trioxide-pyridine complex yields the corresponding 1,4-diketone, M. P. 139 C. This same diketone is also obtained by reacting 2,4b-dimethyl7- ethylenedioxy 1',2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,1021 dodecahydrophenanthrene-l,4-dione with methallyl iodide in the presence of potassium t-butoxide. Condensation of 2 methallyl 2,4b dimethyl 7 ethylenedioxy 1,2, 3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10a ddde'cahydrophenanthrene ,4- dio'n e with ethoxyacetyl'rnagnesium. bromide yield s 2,4bdimethyl 2 methallyl 1 ethoxyethinyl 7 ethylenedio'xy 1,2,3,4,4a,'4b',5 ,6,7 15,10,109. dodecahydr ophenanthrene-l-olr-one, M. P. l31-l32 C. When this ethoxyethinyl': compound is treated with dilute sulfuric acid, 2,4b dimethyb 2 methallyl 1 carboethoxy metli- 5 I ylene 7 ethylenedioxy l,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10adodecahydrophenanthrene-4-one, M. P. 94-96 C. is obtained. Upon hydrolyzing this compound with alkali the corresponding free acid, M. P. 203-205 C. is produced. Reduction of this keto acid with sodium borohydride to the 4-hydroxy acid, followed by reduction of the conjugated double bond with potassium-ammoniaisopropyl alcohol affords 2,4b-dimethyl-l-carboxymethyl- 2 methallyl 7 ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8, 10,10a-ddecahydrophenanthrene-4-ol, M. P. 255-257 C. Reduction of this carboxymethyl compound with lithium aluminum hydride yields the corresponding 1-(,B- hydroxyethyl) derivative M. P. 199-201 C. and 210- 211 C., which on reaction with p-toluene sulfonyl chloride in the presence of pyridine gives the 1(fl-toluene sulfonate), M. P. 157-158 C. Successive oxidations of this monotyslate derivative with the chromium trioxidepyridine complex, with osmium tetroxide and with periodic acid yields 2,4b-dimethyl-lB-(fl-p-toluenesulfonyloxyethyl)-2-acetonyl-7-ethylenedioxy-1.2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8, 10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene 4 one, M. P. 105- 108 C. Upon reacting this product with sodium methoxide (11 3 ethylenedioxy A 17 pregnene 11,20- dione, M. P. 212214 C. is obtained which on equiliberation with alkali gives the 3-ethylenedioxy derivative of dlll-keto progesterone, M. P. 181 1825 C. Acid hydrolysis of this product affords dl-ll-ketoprogesterone. Reaction of the 3-ethylenedioxy derivative of dl-ll-ketoprogesterone with an oxalyl ester yields the corresponding 21-oxalyl ester compound which on hydrolysis is converted to the free acid. Resolution of the dl-21-oxalyl acid by means of the strychnine salt followed by hydrolysis of the oxalyl acid group gives 3-ethylenedioxy-A pregnene-1l,20-dione, M. P. 175-176.5 C. which on hydrolysis with acid affords ll-ketoprogesterone, identical with material prepared from natural sources. Iodination and acetoxylation of the 21-oxaly1 acid of 3 ethylenedioxy A pregnene 11,20 dione obtained as described above yields successively crystalline 3-ethylenedioxy 21 iodo A pregnene 21 ol 11,20- dione and 3-ethylenedioxy-A -pregnene-21-ol-11,20-dione acetate, M. P. 193.5194 C. Acid hydrolysis of this latter compound yields 1l-dehydrocorticosterone identical with the prodoct obtained from natural sources. Conversion of the 3-ethylenedi0xy-A -pregnene-21-o1- 11,20-dione acetate to the 20 cyanhydrin, M. P. dec. 220224 C., and dehydration of this product gives the A -20-cyanopregnadiene, M. P. 203 C. which on oxidation with potassium permanganate yields 3-ethylenedioxy A pregnene 17,21 diol- 11,20 dione acetate, dec. 262267 C. Acid hydrolysis of the latter compound yielded cortisone acetate. These reactions are described in the publication entitled Stereospecific Total Synthesis of Cortisone which appeared in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, volume 74, pages 4974-4975.

The various compounds of our invention having a 4-hy-droxy substituent can be readily oxidized by treatment with an oxidizing agent such as pyridine-chromium trioxide complex to convert this substituent to a keto group. Similarly, a 4-acyloxy substituent can be hydrolyzed to obtain the 4-hydroxy compound which can be oxidized to the corresponding 4-ket0 compound.

The 4b methyl 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,9,10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene-1,4,7-trione and the 7-ethylenedioxy derivative thereof utilized as starting materials in this invention can be prepared as described in copending application Serial No. 293,672, filed June 14, 1952.

The 4b methyl 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,9,10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene-4-o1-1,7-dione, its 4-acyloxy derivatives and the 7-ethylenedioxy derivatives of these compounds used as starting materials in the present invention can be prepared as described in copending application SerialNo. 286,808, filed May 8, 19.52.

5 methyl 6 ethoxy 1,4,4a,5,8,8a hexahydronaph-- tha1ene-1,4-dione is obtained. Hydrogenation of this compound in the presence of Raney nickel produced 5 methyl 6 ethoxy 1,2,3,4,4a,5,8,8a octahydronaphthalene-1,4-dione. Further reduction of this compound by reaction with lithium aluminum hydride afiords the corresponding diol, 5-methyl-6-ethoxy-1,2,3,4,4a,5,8, 8a-octahydronaphthalene-1,4-diol. Upon reacting this compound with dilute acetic acid, 5-methyl-6-keto-perhydronaphthalene 1,4 diol is obtained. When the S-methyl-d-keto-perhydronaphthalene is condensed with methyl vinyl ketone in an alkaline reaction medium 7 keto 4b methyl 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,9,10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene1,4-diol is obtained. Upon reacting the latter product with ethylene glycol in the presence of p-toluene sulfuric acid the corresponding 3-ethylenedioxy derivative, 4b-methyl-7-ethylenedioxy-1,2,3,4, 4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene 1,4- diol is obtained. Oxidizing this compound by reaction with aluminum isopropoxide in the presence of cyclohexanone forms a mixture containing 4b-rnethyl-7-ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,1021 dodecahydrophenanthrene-1,4-dio11e and the corresponding 4-ol-1-one compound which can be separated and recovered by fractional crystallization and/ or chromatography. Similarly, upon reacting 7-keto-4b-methyl-1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,9,10, l0a-dodecahydrophenanthrene-1,4,-diol with an alcohol, such as methanol or ethanol, in the presence of an acidic catalyst, the corresponding enol ethers are obtained which may be oxidized by reaction with aluminum isopropoxide in the presence of cyclohexanone to obtain the enol ethers of 4b-methyl-7-ethylenedioxy-1,2,3,4,4a, 4b,5,6,7,9,10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene 1,4 dione and the corresponding 4-ol-1-one compound which can be separated and recovered by fractional crystallization and/ or chromatography.

This application is a continuation-in-part of our application Serial No. 278,128, filed March 22, 1952, now abandoned, and of our application Serial No. 293,456, filed June 13, 1952, now abandoned.

The following examples are illustrative of specific embodiments of our invention:

EXAMPLE 1 4b methyl 2 formyl 7 ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b, 5,6, 7,8,10,10a-d0decahydrophenanthrene-4-0l-1 -one To a solution of 0.25 g. of sodium hydride in 3.5 cc. of absolute methanol was added 1.5 g. of methyl formate and 1.0 g. of 4b-methyl-7-ethylenedioxy-l,2,3,4, 4a,4b,5,6,7,810,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene 4 oll-one, and the mixturewas stirred for 16 hours at room temperature. To the mixture was then added 20 cc. of water, and the resulting solution extracted with benzene. The benzene extract was back-extracted with 10 cc. of water, which was added to the original aqueous solution. This aqueous solution was made acid by addition of sodium dihydrogen phosphate and extracted with chloroform. Evaporation of the chloroform extracts gave a crystalline residue of 4b-methyl-2-formy1-7-ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10a .dodetahydmphe- This 7-ethylenedioxy derivative on hydrolysis with acid yields 4b methyl 2 formyl l,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,9,10, 10a-dodecahydrophenanthrenet-ol-l,7-dine.

EXAMPLE 2 2,4b dimethyl 2 formyl 7 ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a, 4b,5,6,7,8,10,,10a doa'ecahydrophenantlzrene-4-ol-1-0ne To a suspension of 11 g. of anhydrous potassium carbonatein 120 cc. of acetone was added 5.4 g. of 4bmethyl 2 formyl 7 ethylenedioxy 1,2,3, 4,4a,4b,5, 6,7,8,'10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene 4 ol 1 one. The mixture was stirred for 1 /2' hours, 13 ml. of'methyl iodide was added, andthe stirring was continued for 16 hours, at room temperature. The mixture was then evaporated to one-thirdvolume, and 600 cc. of benzene added-; The benzene solution was washed with 100 cc. of ice-cold l N aqueous potassium hydroxide solution. Evaporation of the benzene gave a crystalline residue containing 2,4b dimethyl 2 formyl 7 ethylenedioxy 1, 2, 3., 4,4a,4b,5,6,7,810,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene-4-ol-1-one. Hydrolysis of the latter compound with acid yields 2,4b-dimethyl-2-formyl-1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6, 7,9, 10, l Oa-dodecahydrophenanthrene-4-ol-1,7-dione.

EXAMPLE 3 2,4b-dimethy l-7-ethylenedi0xy-l ,2,3,4,4a,4 12,5 ,6,7,8,Z 0, 1 0a-dodecahydr0phenanthrene-4-0l-1 -one 2,4b-a'imetlzyl-7-ethylenedi0xy-1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10, 1 Gut-(10d ccahydrophenanthrene-4-0l-1 -0ne Four hundred eighty-one milligrams of 2,4b-dimethyl- 2 formyl 7 ethylenedioxy l,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10, 10a-dodecahydrophenanthrene 4-ol-lo-ne in 5 cc. of 0.5 N methanolic potassium hydroxide was heated on the steam bath for ten minutes. cc. of water was added and the methanol removed in vacuo. The resultant aqueous suspension was extracted with chloroform. The chloroform extract was dried, and concentrated in vacuo to a yellow oil. Ether trituration of this oil afforded crude crystalline 2,4b-dimethyl-7-ethylenedioxy-1,2,3,4, 4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10a'- dodecahydrophenanthrene 4 ol- 1 one. Purification was accomplished by chromatography from benzene-petroleum ether on acid washed alumina. Elution with petroleum ether-ether (6:4) gave essentially pure material, M. P. 185-l90 C.

EXAMPLE 5 4 b metlzyl 2 acetyl 7 ethylenedioxy 1,2,3',4,4a,4b, 5,6,7,8,10,10rr-dodecahydrophenanthrene-4-0l-1-0ne To a suspension of 2.5 g. of sodium methoxide in 5 cc. of benzene was added 1.0 g. of 4b-m'ethyl-7-ethylenedioxy l,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,l0a,- dodecahydrophenanthrene-4-ol-1-one and 3 cc. of methyl acetate, and the mixture was stirred for 24 hours at room temperature. The mixture was then diluted with 100 cc. of benzene and 10cc. of water. The aqueous layer was separated and extracted with 150 cc. of benzene. The combined benzene extracts were extracted with cc. of-water, which was added to the original aqueous extract. The combined aqueous extract was acidified with sodium dihydrogen phosphate and extracted with chloroform. Evaporation of the chloroform extract gave a crystalline residue of 4b-methyl-Z-acietyl-7-ethylenedioxy-l,2,3, 4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene 4 oll-one, M. P. after recrystallization, 200-205 C. Hydrolysis of this compound with acid yields 4b-methyl-2- acetyl-l,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,9,l0,10a-4-ol-1,7-dio-ne.

EXAMPLE 6 2,4b dimethyl 2 acetyl 7 ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a, 4b,5,6,7,8,10,.10a-dodecahydrophenanthrene-4-0l-1-0ne To a suspension of 200 mg. of potassium carbonate in 2 cc. of acetone was added mg. of 4b-methyl-2- acetyl 7 ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10as dodecahydrophenanthrene 4-ol-1-one, and the mixture was stirred for a half hour. Then 0.5 cc. methyl iodide was added, and the stirring was continued for 16' hours at room temperature. The mixture was then evaporated to dryness, and the residue: extractedwith 25 cc. of 7:3 benzene-ether mixture; Evaporation of the benzeneether gave a residue containing the two epimeric modifications of 2,4b-dimethyl-2-acetyl-7-ethylenedioxy-1,2,3, 4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene 4 o1 l-one. Separation by fractional crystallization from acetone-petroleum ether gave the two epimers, M. P. ll95 C. and l32134.5 C. Hydrolysis of these epimers with acid yield the corresponding 1,7-dione compounds.

EXAMPLE 7 2,4b dimethyl 7 ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7, 8,1 0,10a-d0decahydr0ph enanthrene-4-0l-1 -one To 0.9 g. of crude 2,4b-dimethyl-Z-acetyl-7-ethylenedioxy-1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene-4 ol-1-one was added 25 cc. of 1 M potassium carbonate in 50% aqueous methanol, and the resulting solution was boiled, under reflux for 2 hours. The methanol was removed in vacuo and the remaining aqueous solution was extracted with two cc. portions of benzene. Evaporation of the benzene gave a crystalline residue of 2,4b dimethyl 7 ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,- 7,8,10,10adodecahydrophenanthrene 4 o1 1 one, M. P. 186-189 C. after recrystallization from acetonepetroleum ether.

EXAMPLE 8 4b methyl 2 acetyl 7 ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a; 4b,5,6,7,8,10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene 4 0l 1 one and 4b methyl 2 acetyl 7 ethylenedioxy- 1,2,3;4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10a dodecahydrophenan threne 4 ol 1 one acetate To a rapidly stirred suspension of 3.2 g. (0.059 mole) of sodium methoxide (baked at 200 C. and 0.05 mm. for. 1.5 hours) in 15 cc. of anhydrous benzene were added in succession, 4.0 g. of 4b-methyl-7-ethylenedioxyr 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene- 4-ol-1-one (I) and 15 cc. of methyl acetate; the flask was stoppered and the mixture was stirred for about 16 hours. The mixture was then poured into 50 cc. of water and 50 cc. of benzene. The aqueous layer was separated, and the organic layer was extracted twice with water, and then with cold 1 N aqueous potassium hydroxide. combined aqueous extracts were acidified with solid sodium dihydrogen phosphate and-extracted thrice with chloroform. Evaporation of the combined chloroform extracts left 3.4 g. of crystalline residue which could be fractionally crystallized from acetone-petroleum ether into 1.8 g. (40%) of4b-methyl-Z-acetyl-7-ethylenedioxy- 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene- 4-ol-1-one, M. P. 201-204 C., )t max. 291 mu, Emol 10,300, and 1.6 g. (31%) of 4bmethyl-2-acetyl-7-ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,1021 dodecahydrophenanthrene 4 ol l one acetate, M. P. 159161 C., )t max. 290 mu, E'mol 10,700. The infrared absorption spectra showed maxima at 2.84 mu (OH) and 6.22-

EXAMPLE 7 2,4b dimethyl 2 acetyl 4 acetoxy 7 ethylenedioxy ],2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene 1 one To a suspension 'of 4.0 g. potassium carbonate in 15 cc. acetone was added 1.2 g. of a crystalline mixture containing 4b methyl 2 acetyl 4 acetoxy 7 ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,l0,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene-Lone and 8 cc. methyl iodide. After stirring for 16 hours at room temperature, the mixture was evaporated to a slurry, and 200 cc. benzene added. After washing with 20 cc. water and two 10 cc. portions of cold 1 N aqueous sodium carbonate, evaporation of the benzene gave an oily residue. This, by fractional crystallization from acetone-petroleum ether yielded 2,4b-dimethyl- 2 acetyl 4 acetoxy 7 ethylenedioxy l,2,3,4,4a, 4b,5,6,7,8,10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene 1 one, M. P. 107-110 C.

EXAMPLE 10 2,4b dimethyl 7 ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7, 8,10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene 4 ol 1 one To 10 ml. of 1 N potassium carbonate in 50% aqueous methanol was added 50 mg. of 2,4b-dimethyl-2-acetyl 4-acetoxy 7 ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6 ,7,8,10, 10a-dodecahydrophenanthrene-l-one and the resulting solution Was boiled under reflux for 16 hours. The methanol was evaporated in vacuo, and the remaining aqueous layer extracted with chloroform. Evaporation of the chloroform extract gave a crystalline residue of 2,4b dimethyl 7 ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6, 7,8,10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene-4-ol-l-one, M. P. 185188 C.

EXAMPLE 11 4b methyl 2 formyl 7 ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a, 4b,5,6,7,8,10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene 1,4- dione A solution of 2.90 g. of 4b-methyl7-ethylenedioxy- 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene- 1,4-dione in 10 cc. of methanol was treated with 3.2 cc. of 3.1 N methanolic sodium methoxide and cc. of methyl formate. The solution was stirred overnight at room temperature in the absence of air, then poured into ice Water and extracted with ether. The aqueous alkaline solution was acidified with sodium dihydrogen phosphate and extracted with ether. Evaporation of the etheral extract and recrystallization of the residue from alcohol gave crystalline 4b-methyl-Z-formyl-7-ethylenedioxy-1,2, 3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene 1,4- dione, M. P. 159-161 C. Hydrolysis of this compound with acid yields 4b-methyl-2-formyl-1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7, 9,10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene 1,4,7 trione.

EXAMPLE 12 2,4b dimethyl 2 formyl 7 ethylenedioxy ],2,3,4,

4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene 1,4- dione A solution of 318 mg. of 4b-methyl-2-formyl-7-ethylenedioxy-l,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene 1,4 dione in 3 cc. of acetone was stirred at room temperature overnight with 0.5 cc. of methyl iodide and 250 mg. of potassium carbonate. The mixture was then poured into water and ether, the ether-a1 layer washed with aqueous sodium sulfite, then concentrated to dryness. The residue consisted of amorphous 2,4b-dimethyl-2- formyl 7 ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10adodecahydrophenanthrene1,4dione. Upon hydrolysis with acid this compound yields 2,4b-dimethyl-2-formyl- 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,9,10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene- 1,4,7-trione.

I10 EXAMPLE 13 2,4b dimethyl 7 ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,

10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene 1,4-dime A solution of 350 mg. of crude 2,4b-dimethyl-2-formyl- 7 ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,1021 dodecahydrophenanthrene-1,4-dione in benzene-petroleum ether was poured into a column of 7 g. of alkaline alumina. The alumina was eluted with ether-petroleum ether fractions and the eluates upon evaporation gave crystalline 2,4b dimethyl 7 ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7, 3,10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene 1,4 dione, M. P. 148-149.? C. Hydrolysis of this compound with acid yields 2,4b dimethyl 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,9,10,1021- dodecahydrophenanthrene-1,4,7-trione.

EXAMPLE 14 4b methyl 2 carbomethoxy 7 ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,

4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene 1,4- dione To a suspension of 0.2 g. sodium hydride in 25 cc. benzene were added 1.0 g. of 4b-methyl-7-ethylenedioxy- 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,102. dodecahydrophenanthrene- 1,4-dione and 1.2 cc. methyl carbonate. The mixture was stirred 16 hours, and was then diluted with 25 cc. water and 20 cc. ether. The aqueous layer was separated, and after washing with 25 cc. ether, was acidified with sodium dihydrogen phosphate, and extracted with chloroform. Evaporation of the chloroform extract gave a crystalline residue of 4b-methyl-2-carbomethoxy-7-ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene-l,4-dione, M. P. after recrystallization from ethanol, 147149 C. On hydrolysis with acid, this compound yields 4b-methyl-2-carbomethoxy-1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6, 7,9,10,10a-dodecahydrophenanthrene-1,4,7-trione.

EXAMPLE 15 A mixture of 0.12 g. of 4b-methyl-2-carbomethoxy-7- ethylenedioxy l,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10a-dodecahydrophenanthrene-1,4-dione, 0.25 g, potassium carbonate, 1 .cc. methyl iodide and 5 cc. acetone was stirred for 16 hours at room temperature and was then evaporated to one-half volume. The residue was extracted with benzene, and this extract, after washing with Water, evaporated in vacuo, leaving a residue of the epimeric modifications of 2,4b-dimethyl-2-carbomethoxy-7-ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,1021 dodecahydrophenanthrene-1,4-dione, which could be separated and purified by fractional crystallization from ether to give the two epimeric modifications, M. P. 122-125" C. and M. P. 153156 C. Hydrolysis of this compound with acid yields, 2,4b-dimethyl 2-carbomethoxy-1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7, 9,l0,10a-dodecahydrophenanthrene-1,4,7-trione.

EXAMPLE 16 2,4b dimethyl 7 ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8, 1 0,1 Oa-dodeczzhydrophemmthrene-1,4-dione A heterogeneous mixture of 362 mg. of 2,4b-dimethyl- 2 carbomethoxy 7 ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6, 7,8,10,10a-dodecahydrophenanthrene-1,4-dionie, 362 mg. of potassium carbonate, 2 ml. of water, and 4 ml. of meth anol was stirred at room temperature for 3 /2 hours. It Was homogeneous at the end of 2 hours. MOst of the methanol was removed in vacuo and cold dilute hydrochloric acid added. Chloroform extraction yielded an oil which gave crystalline 2,4b-dimethyl-7-ethylenedioxy-l,2, 3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene 1,4- dione, M. P. 122-128 0., when triturated with ether.

Hydrolysis with dilute hydrochloric acid produced the two isomeric 2,4b-dimethyl-1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,9,10,10a- ,dodecahydrophenanthrene 1,4,7 triones, M. P.

11 174 C. and 1385-1405". C. .These compounds were separated by chromatography over alumina from benzenepetroleum ether solution. One isomeric form was obtained by elution of the chromatogram with a mixture of 2:3 petroleum ether-ether and the second by elution with an ether-chloroform mixture.

EXAMPLE 17 2,4b dimethyl 7 ethylenedz'oxy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8, 10,10a-a'odecahydrophenanthrened,4-cli0ne A'heterogeneous mixture of 410 rrig. of 2,4b-dirnethyl- 2 carbomethoxy 7 3 ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6, 7,8,10,lOa-dodecahydrophenanthrene-1,4-dione, 300 mg. of potassium bicarbonate, 4 cc. of water, and 2 cc. of methanol was refluxed for 2 /2 hours on the steam bath. 4 cc. more of water was added and the resultant solution was extracted with chloroform. Concentration of the magnesium sulfate-dried extract yielded an amber oil, which when first washed with ether, gave crystalline 2,4bdimethyl 7 ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10adodecahydrophenanthrene-l,4-di'one, M. P. 130145 C. Chromatography over alumina and elution with petro- 'leum ether-ether (8:2) gave two purified isomers, M, *P. 135136 C. and 15'2153 C. Hydrolysis of the isomers with acid yields the corresponding 1,4,7-trione compounds.

EXAMPLE 18 4b methyl 2 acetyl- 7 ethylenedioxy 1,2,3}4,4a,4b, 5,6,7,8,10,10a-dodecahydrophenanthrene-Z,4-dine To a suspension of 0.60 g. of anhydrous sodium methoxide in cc. of benzene was added 1.50 g. of 4b-methyl- 7 ethylenedioxy l,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10a dodeca hydrophenanthrene-1,4-dione and 1.65 cc. of methyl acetate. The mixture was stirred in an oxygen-free atmosphere at room temperature for sixteen hours. Ice water was added and the cold aqueous solution was extracted with benzene-ether and then neutralized with excess cold aqueous sodium dihydrogenorthophosphate. The resulting aqueous suspension was extracted with chloroform. Concentration of the chloroform followed by crystallization from acetone gave 4b-methyl-2-acetyl- 7 ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene-l,4-dione, M. P. 173l76 C. After purification by recrystallization from acetone, the pure product melted at 176177 C. On treatment with acid this compoundis hydrolyzed to 4b-methyl-2acetyl-1,2,3, 4 ,4a,4b,5,6,7,9,10,l0a dodecahydrophenanthrene 1,4,7- trione.

EXAMPLE 19 24b dimethyl-Z- acetyl 7 ethylenedioxy ],2,3,4,

4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10;10a dodecahydrophenanthrene 1,4-

dione A suspension of 0.80 g. of anhydrous potassium carbonate in 8 cc. of, acetone containing 0.41 g. of 4hmethyl 2 L acetyl 7 ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a',4b,5,6, 7,8,10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene 1,4 dione was treated with 1.0 cc. of methyl iodide and stirred in a closed system at room temperature for sixteen hours. Acetone and excess methyl iodide were evaporated in vacuo and the residual salts were triturated thoroughly with dry benzene. Evaporation of the benzene gave 2,4bdimethyl 2 acetyl 7 ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5, 6,7,8,10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene-1,4-dione, M. P. 180-198 C. The pure compound melted at ZOO-203 C. after three recrystallizations from acetone. Hydrolyzing this-product with acid yields 2,4b-dimethyl-2-acetyl-1,2,3, 4,4a,4b,5,6,7,9,10,10a.- dodecahydrophenanthrene 1,4,7- trione.

' EXAMPLE 20 2,4b dimethyl] ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,

1 0,1 Oa-dodecahydrophenanthrene-l ,4-di0ne A solution of 0.13 g; of 2,4b-dimethyl-2-acetyl-7-ethyl 12 enedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10a dodecahydro phenanthrene-1,4-dione in 6 cc. of 1 N potassium carbonate in 50% aqueous methanol was heated under. reflux for three hours. Water was added, the methanol was distilled under reduced pressure and the aqueous solution was extracted with chloroform. Evaporation of the chloroform solution gave 2,4b-dimethyl-7-ethylenedioxy- 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene- 1,4-dione, M. P. 112140 C. Recrystallization from ether gavea stereochemical modification melting at 149- 15 0.5 C.

EXAMPLE 21 2,4b dimethyl 2 acetyl 7 ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4, 4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10a dodecahydrophenanthfene 1,4- dione To a mixture of 0.31 g. of chromium trioxide' in 3 cc. of pyridine was added a solution of 0.30 g. of 2,4b-di5 methyl 2 acetyl 7 ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5',6,'

7,8,l0,10a-dodecahydrophenanthrene-4-o1 1-one in 3 cc. of pyridine. The reactants were mixed thoroughly and then allowed to stand in a closed vessel at room temperature for sixteen hours. Water was added to the re-' action mixture and the resulting suspension was extracted with benzene-ether. After washing and drying, the organic solution was evaporated to give 2,4'b-dimethyl-2- acetyl 7 ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10adodecahydrophenanthrene-1,4-dione, M. P. 195-202 C.

EXAMPLE 22 2,4b-climethyl-7-ethylenedioxy-1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10, 1 Oa-dodecahydrophenanthrene-I ,4-di0ne alkaline alumina in ether-petroleum ether gave a modifi cation melting at 116 C.

Both the C. and 115 C. materials were converted" to a third modification meltingat l49l50.5 C. by boil ing in IN K2603 in 75% methanol, distilling the meth'- anol, extracting with chloroform, removing the chloroform and recrystallizing the residue from ether.

EXAMPLE 23 4b methyl 2 hydroxymethylene 7 ethylenedioxy- J,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10a-dodechaydrophenanthrene-4-0l-1 -0ne Sodium methoxide was prepared from 4.6 g. (0.2 g. atoms) of sodium and 110 cc. of methanol. To this was added 14.6 g. (0.05 mole) of 4b-methyl-7-ethylenedioxy- 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10a dodecahydrophenauthrene-4- ol-l-one and 30.0 g. (0.5 mole) of methyl formate. The resultant heterogeneous mixture was stirred under a nitrogen atmosphere at room temperature for 22.5 hours.

During this period the reaction mixture slowly became tan" and part of the solid went into solution. This mixture was poured into 600 cc. of water; extraction with-ether gave after drying and concentration 0.6 g. of neutral crystalline residue. The aqueous layer was acidified with sodium dihydrogen phosphate; this buffered solution was carefully acidified further (to pH 4) with hydrochloric acid and rapidly extracted with-benzene several times. After drying and concentration there was obtained 16.3 g. of crudeenolic fraction as a tan solid residue. It was dissolved in acetone decolorized with activated charcoal and the solution concentrated until crystallization'began 13 in the hot solvent. After cooling a first crop of 10.5 g. of 4b-methyl-2-hydroxy-methylene-7-ethylenedioxy-1,2,3, 4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10a dodec'zhydrophenanthrene 4 oll-one, M. P. 185-200 ;C., of white crystals was collected. Further concentration of the mother liquor gave a second crop of 2.4 g. M. P. 180-195 C., bringing the yield to 81%. Recrystallization from ethylenedichloride gave crystals melting at 203-204 C. An immediate violet color was obtained with alcoholic ferric chloride. The infrared spectrum showed maXima at 2.82;; (OH) and a broadband centered at 6.15 1. (COCHCO). A maximum occurred in the ultraviolet region at 287 mu, E mol 1950.

Various changes and modifications may be made in carrying out the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope thereof. Insofar as these changes and modifications are within the purview of the annexed claims, they are to be considered as part of our invention.

We claim:

1. The process which comprises reacting 4b-methyl-7- ethylenedioxy-1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene-1-4-dione with methyl carbonate in the presence of an alkali metal hydride to produce 4b-methyl-2- carbomethoxy 7-ethylene dioXy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7, 8,10,10a-dodecahydrophenanthrene-1,4-dione.

2. The process which comprises reacting a compound of the formula wherein R and R are the same as defined above and R is a member from the group consisting of lower alkyl and lower alkoxy.

3. 4b methyl 2 formyl 7 ethylenedioxy 1,2,3, 4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene 4 o1- l-one.

4. 4b methyl 2 acetyl 7 ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4, 4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene 4 oll-one.

COR:

COR:

wherein R is a member from the group consisting of keto, hydroxy and lower alkanoyl radicals and R is a member from the group consisting of lower alkyl and lower alkoxy, and 7-alkylenedioxy ketals thereof wherein the alkylene radical contains 2 to 4 carbon atoms.

9. The process which comprises reacting 4b-methyl- 7-ethylenedioXy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene-4-ol-l-one with methylformate in the presence of an alkali metal alkoxide to obtain 4b-methyl- 2-formyl 7 ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10adodecahydrophenanthrene-4-ol-l-one.

10. The process which comprises reacting 4b-methyl- 7 ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,1021 dodecahydrophenanthrene-4-ol-l-one with methyl acetate in the presence of an alkali metal alkoxide to obtain lb-methyl- 2-acetyl-7 ethylcnedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10adodecahydrophenanthrene-4-ol-l-one.

11. The process which comprises reacting 4b-methyl- 7-ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,10a dodecahydrophenanthrene-1,4 dione with methyl formate in the presence of an alkali metal alkoxide to produce 4bmethyl-2-formyl-7-ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,- 10,10a-dodecahydrophenanthrene-1,4-dione.

12. The process which comprises reacting 4b-methyl- 7-ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10,1021 dodecahydrophenanthrene-1,4-dione with methyl acetate in the presence of an alkali metal alkoxide to produce 4bmethyl-2-acetyl-7-ethylenedioxy 1,2,3,4,4a,4b,5,6,7,8,10, 10a-dodecahydrophenanthrene-1,4-dione.

References Cited in the file of this patent UNITED STATES PATENTS 2,617,828 Sarett et al. Nov. 11, 1952 OTHER REFERENCES Cornforth et al.: I. A. C. S., 1949, pages 1855-70.

Friedman et al.: Chem. and Ind., September 15, 1951, pages 777-8.

Sarett et al.: J. A. C. S., 74, 4974 (1952).

Lukes et al.: J. A. C. 8., vol. 75, pages 1707-1712, April 5, 1953. 

2. THE PROCESS WHICH COMPRISES REACTING A COMPOUND OF THE FORMULA 